- Mature height
- 30cm to 60cm
- Mature width
- 1.5m to 3m
Camellia sasanqua ‘Marge Miller’ is the low, spreading form of the species, growing wider than it is tall and trailing its branches sideways and down. Soft pink peony form flowers cover the dense glossy foliage through autumn and winter. It was the first prostrate sasanqua brought into cultivation.
Full sun to part shade and a well drained acidic soil enriched with organic matter suit it. Growth of 20 to 40 centimetres a year builds a mat around 30 to 50 centimetres high and 1.5 to 2 metres across. Once established it takes light to moderate frost and short dry periods.
It goes along the top of retaining walls and embankments where the branches can fall over the edge, as a flowering groundcover under taller shrubs, or spilling from a raised pot. On a steep bank it covers ground that is awkward to mow and holds the soil while it does it.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Marge Miller Camellia
What is Camellia sasanqua ‘Marge Miller’?
A prostrate, spreading camellia that grows outwards rather than upwards, carrying soft pink peony form flowers through autumn and winter over dense glossy foliage. It was the first genuinely weeping sasanqua selection and is used as a flowering groundcover or a cascading plant for walls and raised beds.
How big does it grow?
It stays low, generally 30 to 50 centimetres high, and spreads 1.5 to 2 metres across over several years. Where branches trail down a wall the effective drop can be longer again. It will not build height on its own unless it is trained up a support.
How far apart should I plant it as a groundcover?
Space plants about 1 to 1.2 metres apart for full cover within three to four seasons. Closer planting at 80 centimetres closes the gaps faster on a visible bank or a small bed. Mulch between the plants while they knit together so weeds do not take the open ground.
Will it cascade over a retaining wall?
Yes, that is one of the better uses for it. Plant 40 to 60 centimetres back from the edge so the crown sits in soil and the branches reach the lip naturally. Over a few years the growth falls over the face of the wall and flowers along its length.
Is it frost tolerant?
Once established it takes light to moderate frost without damage. Because the growth sits low to the ground it is more exposed to cold air pooling in frost hollows than an upright shrub would be, so in cold districts avoid the lowest part of the garden for young plants.
Is it safe around pets and children?
Camellias are not listed as toxic to cats, dogs or people, so this is a reasonable choice for family gardens and areas where pets roam. The plant is low and touchable, with no thorns and no irritant sap. As always, discourage children from eating any garden plant.
How do I care for Marge Miller Camellia?
Mulch generously to keep the shallow roots cool, water deeply through the first two summers, and feed with a camellia and azalea fertiliser after flowering finishes. Tip prune in late winter to encourage branching and fuller cover. Lift any branch that has layered into the mulch if you want a tidy edge.
